Carib Scope

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  • Israel begins demolishing UNRWA complex in occupied Jerusalem

    Israel begins demolishing UNRWA complex in occupied Jerusalem

    Israeli military forces have conducted a controversial operation at a United Nations facility, according to reports from the Wafa news agency. The incident involved multiple military units establishing a security perimeter around the area before deploying bulldozers that proceeded to demolish structures within the compound.

    In a particularly symbolic act, soldiers reportedly raised the Israeli flag inside the headquarters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) during the operation. This event represents the latest escalation in a longstanding conflict between Israel and the UN agency that dates back to 2014, when the Israeli government passed legislation effectively banning UNRWA from operating within both Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories.

    UNRWA has served as a critical humanitarian provider for decades, delivering education, healthcare, and essential aid services to millions of Palestinian refugees across the Gaza Strip, West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. The current tensions stem from Israeli allegations that the agency employed Palestinian militants who participated in the October 2013 strike against Israel. These claims have been subsequently refuted by United Nations investigations, though they continue to fuel diplomatic friction.

    The demolition operation and flag-raising incident have drawn international attention, reviving concerns about the delicate relationship between humanitarian operations and political conflicts in the region.

  • Ministry of Education Reports Strong Success of PBM and SEL Training Sessions

    Ministry of Education Reports Strong Success of PBM and SEL Training Sessions

    Antigua and Barbuda’s public education system marked January 16, 2026, as a significant milestone in pedagogical advancement as educators nationwide participated in comprehensive training sessions focused on Positive Behaviour Management (PBM) and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). The initiative, designed to standardize and enhance behavioral management practices across all public schools, generated unprecedented enthusiasm among teachers, principals, attendance counselors, and support staff.

    The training curriculum centered around the PBM Teachers’ Manual and accompanying workbooks initially introduced two years ago, now refined through practical implementation experience. Educational facilitators reported exceptionally high levels of engagement, with participants actively contributing to discussions, collaborative workshops, and reflective exercises aimed at promoting best practices in student behavior management and socio-emotional development.

    Preliminary feedback from attendees indicated overwhelmingly positive responses to the training content and delivery methods. The Ministry of Education has committed to utilizing evaluation data gathered during these sessions to further refine program components, ensuring continued relevance and effectiveness in classroom applications.

    A team comprising Education Officers, school principals, and experienced teachers served as facilitators across twenty-five educational institutions nationwide. Despite initial apprehensions among first-time trainers, all demonstrators exhibited remarkable professionalism and adaptability throughout the sessions. Many facilitators expressed profound gratitude for contributing to the Ministry’s broader mission of creating safe, nurturing, and effectively managed learning environments.

    The Ministry of Education extended formal appreciation to all participating educational personnel and particularly acknowledged UNICEF for their sustained support of this critical program. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to advancing PBM and SEL initiatives, emphasizing their vital role in fostering positive relationships, constructive interactions, and behaviors that support comprehensive student development.

  • VIDEO: Pleased with progress but prepped for next problem

    VIDEO: Pleased with progress but prepped for next problem

    In a protracted struggle spanning nearly two decades, Francisco Baptiste continues his unwavering pursuit for rightful compensation from the government after losing his property to state infrastructure development. The case traces back to the construction of the Lowmans Bay fuel depot, which resulted in the seizure of Baptiste’s residential property and agricultural assets including fruit trees that constituted his livelihood.

    Two years following initial media coverage, the situation remains unresolved despite the passage of time. Baptiste’s property, once a source of sustenance and income, was appropriated for what the government deemed essential national infrastructure. While the fuel depot has been operational for years, the promised compensation has failed to materialize through proper channels or adequate settlement offers.

    The case highlights persistent challenges in property rights enforcement and government accountability in development projects. Baptiste represents numerous citizens affected by infrastructure initiatives who face bureaucratic hurdles and institutional delays in seeking redress. His two-decade-long quest underscores systemic issues in balancing national development objectives with individual property protections.

    Those moved to support Baptiste’s cause may contact him directly at +1784-533-6445, though the number accepts only traditional voice calls rather than internet-based communication services.

  • Global job quality stagnates despite resilient growth

    Global job quality stagnates despite resilient growth

    A comprehensive analysis by the International Labour Organization (ILO) reveals a troubling paradox in global labor markets: while economic growth demonstrates resilience and unemployment rates remain stable, fundamental improvements in job quality have ground to a halt worldwide.

    The latest Employment and Social Trends 2026 report indicates the global unemployment rate will hold steady at 4.9% throughout 2026, representing approximately 186 million individuals. However, beneath this surface stability lies a deeper crisis of job quality. ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo emphasized that stable statistics mask the harsh reality that hundreds of millions remain trapped in cycles of poverty, informality, and economic exclusion.

    Critical examination reveals nearly 300 million workers subsist on less than $3 daily, while informality continues its upward trajectory. Projections indicate 2.1 billion workers will occupy informal positions by 2026, lacking essential social protections, workplace rights, and job security. The most severe regression appears in low-income countries, where workers with already precarious conditions face further deterioration.

    The report identifies multiple intersecting challenges: youth unemployment climbed to 12.4% in 2025, with approximately 260 million young people classified as NEET (not in education, employment, or training). Artificial intelligence and automation present additional threats, particularly for educated youth in high-income nations seeking entry into skilled occupations.

    Gender inequality remains deeply entrenched, with women representing just 40% of global employment and demonstrating 24% lower labor force participation rates than men. Progress in female workforce engagement has stagnated, delaying advancements toward workplace gender equality.

    Demographic shifts further complicate the global employment landscape. Aging populations in developed economies constrain labor force growth, while low-income countries struggle to convert rapid population expansion into productive employment opportunities. Without sufficient job creation, poorer nations risk squandering their demographic potential.

    Global trade disruptions and policy uncertainties compound these challenges, particularly affecting wages in Southeast Asia, Southern Asia, and Europe. Nevertheless, trade continues supporting 465 million jobs globally, with over half concentrated in Asia and the Pacific region.

    The ILO urges coordinated action among governments, employers, and workers to address these systemic issues through responsible technological integration, enhanced skills development, and policies specifically targeting gender and youth employment gaps.

  • US seizes sanctioned tanker in Caribbean crackdown

    US seizes sanctioned tanker in Caribbean crackdown

    In a significant maritime enforcement operation, US military forces successfully boarded and seized the oil tanker Veronica in Caribbean waters on January 16th. The coordinated mission involved tactical teams from US Southern Command and the US Coast Guard, with additional support provided by marines and sailors deployed from the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford.

    Authorities confirmed the operation concluded without incident, with released footage showing special forces fast-roping onto the tanker’s deck. The vessel, which had last transmitted its automated position on January 3rd while anchored off Aruba, was carrying a partial load of crude oil at the time of interception.

    Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem publicly announced the action through social media channels, characterizing the seizure as part of an intensified campaign to enforce international sanctions against Venezuela’s petroleum exports. US officials emphasized their commitment to denying safe passage to vessels transporting Venezuelan crude in violation of restrictions.

    The Veronica represents at least the sixth interdiction of sanctioned or suspect tankers since December 2025, according to US officials and public records. Legal authorities have assumed custody of both the vessel and its crew, with warnings that seized personnel could face prosecution. Specific criminal charges and final dispositions regarding the cargo and crew remain undisclosed at this time.

    Maritime registry data reveals inconsistent flag and identity documentation for vessels operating in this trade network, with the Veronica’s flag status itself being disputed in public accounts. This operation follows separate US enforcement actions earlier in January that removed the Aframax tanker Olina from service—a vessel appearing in maritime records under previous names and different flags.

    The enforcement measures are producing immediate commercial consequences within the shadow fleet operations. Industry monitors report a measurable deterrent effect on Venezuelan oil shipments, manifested through reduced visible loadings and more circuitous tanker routing. This increased opacity elevates transaction risks for buyers and shippers, subsequently driving higher insurance premiums, charter rates, and costs associated with clandestine transfers.

    Geopolitically, the enforcement campaign unfolds against a complex backdrop. US officials maintain these measures aim to compel lawful commercial access to Venezuela’s petroleum reserves while disrupting sanctions evasion channels. Russia has previously criticized such interdictions as violations of maritime norms, and broader diplomatic tensions potentially complicate cooperative enforcement efforts at sea.

    Long-term implications suggest sustained interdictions could accelerate existing trends in the tanker market, including increased use of flags of convenience, frequent vessel renamings, and growth of intermediary trading hubs. These adaptations may ultimately constrain buyers of Venezuelan crude, reduce realized prices, and potentially depress government revenue in Caracas. While the immediate supply impact on global markets remains limited given Venezuela’s current production levels, persistent enforcement adds new volatility layers to an already complex oil market.

  • DRC government organizes humanitarian aid and operations in Uvira

    DRC government organizes humanitarian aid and operations in Uvira

    In response to the recent withdrawal of the Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka has convened an emergency cabinet meeting to address the humanitarian crisis. The meeting, attended by senior security officials and government ministers, focused on developing a comprehensive response to the extensive displacement caused by the nearly two-month occupation.

    The Prime Minister revealed that the rebel occupation has resulted in the displacement of approximately 267,000 individuals, including a particularly vulnerable group of 12,000 unaccompanied minors. Addressing this mass displacement, Suminwa Tuluka identified facilitating the safe return of these populations as the government’s immediate priority.

    However, the Prime Minister established strict protocols for repatriation efforts, mandating that no return operations be authorized without thorough preliminary assessments of residential conditions. This cautious approach aims to prevent further vulnerability among returning populations. The Ministry of Social Affairs and the General Directorate of Migration (DGM) have been tasked with implementing these assessment protocols and managing the return process.

    Government Spokesperson Patrick Muyaya further elaborated that the administration faces significant challenges in restoring public services in Uvira, where suspected AFC/M23 elements may still operate. The effective reestablishment of governmental authority and public services in these areas remains a critical component of the stabilization strategy.

  • Djibouti hosts International Forum on Adaptation to Climate Change

    Djibouti hosts International Forum on Adaptation to Climate Change

    Under the high patronage of Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh, a landmark international conference convened from January 19-21, assembling a distinguished cohort of scientists, political leaders, climate specialists, and representatives from global organizations. This pivotal gathering focused on developing innovative solutions to the escalating climate crisis affecting the Horn of Africa and beyond.

    Dr. Jalludin Mohamed, Director General of Djibouti’s Center for Research Studies, set the tone with an urgent call to action, emphasizing the immediate threats posed by climate change to regional stability and ecosystems. His address highlighted the critical window for implementing effective mitigation strategies.

    Professor Daniel Olago, Director of the Institute for Climate Change and Adaptation at the University of Nairobi, presented a forward-looking vision for climate research. He advocated for equipping emerging scientists with cutting-edge technological tools, specifically highlighting the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning in analyzing complex climate data and predicting environmental trends.

    Djibouti’s Minister of Higher Education and Research, Nabil Mohamed Ahmed, reinforced the nation’s strategic commitment to positioning scientific innovation and international collaboration as central pillars of its climate adaptation framework. This declaration signals Djibouti’s ambition to become a regional hub for climate research excellence.

    The summit featured an extensive program of thematic sessions, technical workshops, and scientific presentations specifically designed to translate theoretical discussions into practical, actionable recommendations. Participants worked to develop concrete initiatives that combine traditional knowledge with modern technological approaches to create sustainable climate resilience models.

  • Vietnam underscores historic responsibility of CPV’s 14th Congress

    Vietnam underscores historic responsibility of CPV’s 14th Congress

    In a landmark address opening Vietnam’s 14th National Party Congress, State leader Cuong outlined an ambitious strategic framework that will guide the nation’s trajectory through 2030 and beyond. The gathering, comprising 1,586 delegates representing over five million party members, constitutes a pivotal moment for determining Vietnam’s future direction and national destiny.

    Cuong emphasized that the congress transcends mere objective-setting for the 2026-2030 period, representing instead a comprehensive blueprint for decades to come. The conclave seeks to galvanize national development aspirations while fostering pride and resilience across Vietnamese society. A central focus involves mobilizing all available resources and growth engines to strengthen national unity and harness contemporary opportunities.

    The comprehensive agenda addresses synchronized advancement across multiple domains: renewal initiatives, construction projects, development processes, and homeland defense. These efforts align with President Ho Chi Minh’s vision of establishing Vietnam as a nation comparable to global powers, fulfilling the aspirations of both the revered leader and the Vietnamese populace.

    Characterizing the 14th Congress as inaugurating a new developmental epoch, Cuong highlighted its embodiment of resolute political determination and collective national solidarity. The overarching vision pursues a Vietnam distinguished by peace, independence, democracy, prosperity, civilization, and happiness—steadily progressing toward socialist ideals through coordinated implementation of these strategic priorities.

  • Financial agencies and entrepreneurs on Noboa’s agenda in Switzerland

    Financial agencies and entrepreneurs on Noboa’s agenda in Switzerland

    Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa is embarking on a significant diplomatic mission to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, scheduled from January 20-24. The president’s agenda features high-level meetings with three of the world’s most influential financial leaders: IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, Inter-American Development Bank President Ilan Goldfajn, and World Bank President Ajay S. Banga.

    Beyond economic discussions, President Noboa will strengthen bilateral relations through scheduled dialogues with multiple heads of state, including Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino, Israeli President Isaac Herzog, and Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. These meetings represent strategic efforts to expand Ecuador’s international partnerships across diverse regions.

    The president’s itinerary also includes substantive engagements with global business leaders and entrepreneurs, highlighting his administration’s commitment to attracting foreign investment and stimulating economic growth. As part of the official forum programming, Noboa will contribute to two key discussions: ‘Rebuilding Trust in Latin America’ and ‘Transforming Latin America’s Investment Frontier,’ where he will articulate his vision for regional development and stability.

    This diplomatic initiative occurs amid Ecuador’s ongoing economic challenges and reflects the government’s proactive approach to securing international support and investment opportunities.

  • Brazil agriculture minister says country is ready to increase collaboration with IICA and member states

    Brazil agriculture minister says country is ready to increase collaboration with IICA and member states

    Brazil has expressed strong confidence in Muhammad Ibrahim’s new leadership role at the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), highlighting his extensive expertise in agricultural management and innovation-driven competitiveness. The endorsement came during Ibrahim’s swearing-in ceremony in San José, Costa Rica, where he officially began his four-year term as Director General.

    Cleber Soares, Brazil’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, represented Minister Carlos Fávaro at the ceremony and emphasized Ibrahim’s comprehensive understanding of both opportunities and challenges facing agricultural systems across the Americas. Soares confirmed Brazil’s commitment to collaborative efforts with IICA member states under Ibrahim’s guidance.

    The newly appointed Director General, a distinguished Guyanese agronomist, was elected by the continent’s agriculture ministers in November, succeeding Argentina’s Manuel Otero who completed two terms. Soares revealed that preliminary discussions with Ibrahim are already underway to facilitate knowledge sharing, particularly regarding Brazil’s advancements in tropical agriculture.

    Brazil’s remarkable agricultural transformation serves as a model for technological progress in the sector. Once a major food importer, the nation has emerged as a global agricultural powerhouse through research-driven innovations that significantly boosted productivity and sustainability.

    Looking forward, Soares identified IICA’s critical mission: strengthening partnerships between major food-exporting nations like Brazil and import-dependent countries, especially in Central America and the Caribbean. A key challenge involves integrating small-scale farmers into modern agricultural systems through sustainable technologies and value-added approaches.

    ‘Our objective extends beyond production techniques,’ Soares explained. ‘Producers require comprehensive support in farm management, marketing strategies, distribution networks, input procurement, and climate adaptation. Additionally, we must address the resurgence of plant and animal diseases that transcend national borders—an area where IICA’s coordination role becomes essential.’

    The deputy minister also emphasized two fundamental pillars for continental agricultural sustainability: accessible credit and agricultural insurance. He noted that without credit facilities, many smallholders cannot sustain their operations, while insurance protection remains particularly crucial in tropical regions vulnerable to production losses.